Updated: February 21, 2025
For LGBTQIA+ individuals and families, finding a place where you can live authentically and feel truly welcome makes all the difference. Fortunately, many countries around the world are embracing equality, diversity, and inclusivity, offering not just legal protections but also vibrant queer communities, exciting Pride celebrations, and a culture of global acceptance.
From bustling cities in Canada with thriving LGBTQIA+ scenes to the peaceful retreats of Portugal where inclusivity is a way of life, we’ve rounded up the most LGBT friendly countries around the world.
Whether you’re planning a move, looking for a travel destination, or simply curious about where LGBTQIA+ rights are flourishing, these nations are leading the way in progress, pride, and the celebration of acceptance.
1. Portugal
Portugal shines as one of the most LGBT friendly countries to move to, combining progressive laws with a warm, inclusive culture and ranking joint first in the Spartacus Gay Travel Index in 2024.
Since decriminalizing homosexuality in 1982, the country has been a trailblazer for LGBT rights, legalizing same-sex marriage in 2010, granting equal adoption rights to same-sex couples in 2016, and ensuring transgender people can change their legal gender identity without surgery since 2011.
Add to this robust anti-discrimination and hate crime laws to protect the community in employment, healthcare, and public life, and it’s clear why moving to Portugal continues to be a trend within the LGBT community.
Lisbon’s Bairro Alto and Príncipe Real are at the heart of the LGBTQIA+ scene, buzzing with bars, clubs, and queer-friendly spaces, while Porto and the Algarve are also growing hotspots. The country comes alive with events like Lisbon Pride, Porto Pride, and Queer Lisboa (Portugal’s biggest LGBTQIA+ film festival), plus electrifying parties on Pink Street.
Cities like Faro in the Algarve and Évora in the Alentejo have also joined the movement, hosting smaller Pride parades and events for the queer community that foster inclusivity and acceptance.
While rural areas may be more traditional, the overall atmosphere in Portugal is one of openness and celebration and Portugal LGBT expats find it easy to integrate with locals and expats in Portugal and settle well in the country.
Discover just how easy it is to find your dream home in Portugal with our ultimate guide
2. Finland
Finland is a Nordic gem with a strong commitment to LGBT rights. Same-sex marriage has been legal since 2017, and joint adoption for same-sex couples is also allowed. Finland also recognizes gender identity without requiring surgery, and discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity is banned.
The capital, Helsinki, is the epicenter of Finland’s LGBTQIA+ culture, with queer clubs and bars like DTM (Don’t Tell Mama) and a lively Pride scene. Helsinki Pride, the country’s biggest LGBTQIA+ event, fills the city with color each June, while queer film festivals like Vinokino celebrate diversity and highlight the struggles of queer minorities.
Other cities with notable Pride culture and celebrations include Lappeenranta, Turku, and Tampere. Overall, Finland is known to be a welcoming and accepting country for the LGBTQIA+ community.
3. Norway
Norway is a pioneer in LGBT rights and a breathtakingly beautiful country to boot. The country consistently ranks high among the best countries for LGBT rights, offering equality and protection through comprehensive anti-discrimination laws.
Homosexuality was decriminalized in 1972, and Norway became one of the first countries to legalize same-sex partnerships in 1993, followed by same-sex marriage equality in 2009.
Oslo is the heart of the country’s LGBTQIA+ life, home to London Pub (Norway’s oldest gay bar) and the massive Oslo Pride festival every June. Other cities like Bergen and Trondheim also have growing queer communities, and LGBTQIA+ travelers will find Norwegian society to be warm and accepting.
4. Iceland
Iceland is a small island nation with a big heart for LGBT rights. ILGA-Europe (the International Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Trans, and Intersex Association) ranks Iceland second on its 2024 Rainbow Map, which assesses 49 European countries on their respective legal and policy practices for LGBT people. It is one of the most LGBTQ-friendly countries to live and visit, with marriage for same-sex relationships, same-sex adoption, and gender recognition laws among the most progressive globally.
In 2009, Iceland made history when Jóhanna Sigurðardóttir became the world’s first openly gay head of government. Discrimination against LGBTQIA+ individuals is illegal, and Icelandic society is deeply accepting of the queer community.
Reykjavík is Iceland’s main LGBTQIA+ hub, with famous bars like Kiki Queer Bar and events like Reykjavík Pride, which brings the whole city together in a massive celebration. The RVKBear (Reykjavík Bear) men-only festival is another unique event, attracting LGBTQIA+ visitors from around the world for breathtaking nature tours, lagoon swims, and parties.
Whether you’re exploring glaciers, bathing in hot springs, or partying in Reykjavík, you’ll feel welcomed and celebrated in Iceland.
5. Belgium
Belgium was the second country in the world to legalize same-sex marriage in 2003, after the Netherlands, and continues to be one of the most LGBTQ-friendly countries in the world. Adoption rights, gender recognition laws, and anti-discrimination protections are all firmly in place, ensuring a safe and inclusive society.
Brussels and Antwerp are LGBTQIA+ hotspots, featuring lively gay bars, clubs, and events like Brussels Pride and Antwerp Pride, which are some of the biggest queer celebrations in Europe.
The Belgian Pride festival brings tens of thousands together each year, and the country’s laid-back, inclusive environment makes it a fantastic destination for LGBTQIA+ visitors and residents alike.
6. Denmark
Deserving of a place on the list of most LGBT friendly countries, Denmark is a pioneer in LGBTQIA+ rights, being the first country in the world to recognize same-sex partnerships in 1989. Today, same-sex marriage, adoption, access to fertility treatments, and strong legal protections ensure full equality for the LGBT community.
Copenhagen is at the heart of Danish LGBTQIA+ life, home to Copenhagen Pride, the Mix Copenhagen LGBTQ+ Film Festival (one of the oldest LGBTQ film festivals in the world), and some of Europe’s oldest gay bars like Centralhjørnet.
Denmark hosted WorldPride in 2021, cementing its status as a global LGBTQIA+ hub. With its open-minded society, LGBT friendly spaces, and stunning Scandinavian charm, Denmark is a dream destination for queer individuals looking for both culture and celebration.
7. Spain
Spain is a fiery blend of passion, culture, and LGBT inclusivity. Having legalized same-sex marriage in 2005 and consistently ranking as one of the most accepting societies globally, Spain is a favorite among the community. Anti-discrimination laws, gender recognition rights, and a vibrant LGBTQIA+ culture make Spain a top queer destination.
Chueca (Madrid’s LGBTQIA+ district) and Barcelona’s beachside queer and gay scene are hotspots in the queer community. Madrid Pride (Orgullo) is one of the biggest Pride events in the world, attracting millions each year (over two million people attended in 2024). Cities like Valencia, and Sitges (a famous gay beach town) are also LGBTQIA+ hotspots.
Spain’s warm, accepting culture and lively nightlife make it a favorite destination for the LGBT community, where LBGT expats often deliberate between buying Spain vs Portugal property to relocate. Even smaller towns and coastal areas are increasingly welcoming, ensuring Spain remains a top choice for inclusivity.
Portugal or Spain – which is better to live and buy property? Find out in our guide!
8. Canada
Canada is one of the best countries for LGBT rights, offering some of the strongest protections and inclusivity. The country was ranked first on the Asher and Lyric 2023 LGBTQ+ Travel Safety Index, making it one of the safest places for LGBTQ to live and travel.
Cities like Toronto, Vancouver, and Montreal are thriving LGBTQIA+ hubs, with numerous queer spaces and events. Toronto’s Church-Wellesley Village is a must-visit, home to Toronto Pride, one of the largest Pride celebrations in North America and featuring a parade, marches, and rallies.
Montreal’s Fierté Montréal, Vancouver’s Pride Festival, and the Whistler Pride events showcase the country’s inclusive spirit year-round.
9. The Netherlands
The Netherlands made history as the first country in the world to legalize same-sex unions in 2001 and continues to be a global leader in LGBTQIA+ rights and is one of the safest places for LGBTQ people to live. Discrimination protections, gender recognition laws, and a deeply accepting culture make it a fantastic place for individuals of the community.
Amsterdam is at the center of Dutch queer culture, with iconic events like Amsterdam Pride, featuring the world-famous Canal Parade.
The city’s Reguliersdwarsstraat (Amsterdam’s most famous gay street) is packed with LGBTQ+ bars and clubs, and other cities like Rotterdam and Utrecht also have thriving queer communities.
10. Malta
Malta has been a champion in Europe for LGBTQIA+ rights, topping ILGA-Europe’s Rainbow Map for several years and placing joint first in the Spartacus Gay Travel Index in 2024, too.
Malta boasts same-sex marriage, gender recognition rights, and some of the strongest anti-discrimination laws in the world. Malta was the first country in the European Union to ban conversion therapy, and LGBTQIA+ individuals enjoy full legal equality.
Despite its relatively small size, Malta has a lively LGBTQIA+ scene, with Malta Pride in Valletta, Malta’s capital, growing in popularity every year. The island’s stunning beaches, historic streets, and LGBTQ+ friendly resorts make it a fantastic destination for queer travelers.
The Top 10 Gay-Friendly Countries Ranked According to Anti-Discrimination Legislation, Global Acceptance, and Travel Safety
Several international indexes track and measure the best countries for LGBT rights, equality, and societal acceptance, recognizing the strides they have taken toward legal protections, safety, and overall inclusivity.
These indexes provide valuable insights for those looking to relocate, travel, or advocate for LGBTQIA+ rights. Here’s how the most LGBT-friendly countries stack up on the following indices:
- ILGA-Europe Rainbow Map: Ranks European countries based on legal protections, human rights policies, and anti-discrimination laws
- Asher & Lyric LGBTQ+ Travel Safety Index: Evaluates countries based on factors like legal protections, LGBTQ+ criminalization, hate crime rates, and public attitudes to highlight the safest destinations
- Spartacus Gay Travel Index: Assesses countries based on LGBTQ+ rights, safety, and tourism friendliness, including gay marriage equality, legal status of adoption rights, transgender rights, and anti-discrimination protections, as well as negative factors like hate crimes against sexual and gender minorities and legal persecution
- Equaldex LGBTQ+ Equality Index: This LGBT Equality Index tracks everything from gay marriage equality and adoption laws to military service and gender recognition policies.
- The Williams Institute’s Global Acceptance Index: This LGBTQ Global Acceptance Index ranks countries based on public attitudes toward LGBTQ+ people rather than just legal rights.
Spartacus Gay Travel Index Ranking | Asher & Lyric LGBTQ+ Travel Safety Index Ranking | ILGA-Europe Rainbow Map Ranking | Equaldex LGBTQ+ Equality Index Ranking | Williams Institute Global Acceptance Index Ranking | |
Portugal | 1 | 6 | 10 | 12 | 28 |
Finland | 13 | 22 | 6 | 19 | 14 |
Norway | 8 | 5 | 9 | 2 | 3 |
Iceland | 8 | 12 | 2 | 1 | 1 |
Belgium | 21 | 9 | 3 | 19 | 15 |
Denmark | 8 | 8 | 5 | 7 | 7 |
Spain | 1 | 7 | 4 | 3 | 6 |
Canada | 1 | 1 | N/A | 9 | 5 |
Netherlands | 21 | 3 | 14 | 9 | 2 |
Malta | 1 | 4 | 1 | 12 | 12 |
How Goldcrest Can Help You
Goldcrest is a buyer’s agent located in Portugal. With deep knowledge of LGBTQ friendly areas like Lisbon, Porto, and the Algarve, we can help you find welcoming communities and a new home that fits your lifestyle.
Goldcrest provides personalized and tailored guidance on the real estate market, where the buyer comes first at every step. Whether you’re looking for a vibrant city life, a coastal retreat, or a quiet countryside escape, your needs will be met with care as we help you find the best properties at the best price.
Contact us for an obligation-free consultation to see how we can help you find your dream home in Portugal.
Frequently Asked Questions about the Most LGBT-Friendly Countries Globally
What are the most LGBT-welcoming countries to live in?
Some of the most LGBT-welcoming countries include Canada, the Netherlands, Spain, Portugal, Malta, and Denmark, all of which offer strong legal protections, marriage equality, and thriving queer communities. These countries rank highly for safety, inclusivity, and LGBTQIA+ rights, making them great places to live for queer individuals and families.
What criteria are used to determine LGBTQ-friendliness in a country?
LGBTQ-friendliness is measured based on legal protections, anti-discrimination laws, marriage and adoption rights, gender recognition policies, and societal attitudes. Other factors include LGBTQIA+ visibility, gay pride events, safety levels, and access to healthcare for queer and trans individuals.
What are the safest countries in the world for LGBTQ individuals?
The safest countries in the world for LGBTQ include Portugal, Finland, Spain, Norway, Iceland, Belgium, Denmark, Canada, the Netherlands, and Malta. Other countries like Sweden also rank highly on safety indices like the Asher and Lyric Travel Safety Index, which assesses the level of safety for people of the LGBT community.
Which countries have the most vibrant LGBTQ communities and events?
Spain (Madrid Pride), the Netherlands (Amsterdam Pride), Canada (Toronto Pride), and the US (New York Pride and San Francisco Pride) host some of the largest and most vibrant LGBTQIA+ events.
Can LGBTQ individuals adopt children?
Yes, many countries allow same-sex couples and LGBTQ individuals to adopt, including Canada, the UK, Spain, Portugal, Sweden, and the Netherlands. However, some places still restrict or prohibit LGBTQIA+ adoption, so it’s important to check local laws before planning a move if you desire to adopt children.
Which South American countries are considered the most LGBTQ-friendly?
Argentina, Uruguay, Chile, Brazil, and Colombia are among the most LGBTQ-friendly countries in South America, offering marriage equality, anti-discrimination laws, and vibrant queer communities. Argentina was the first in the region to legalize same-sex unions in 2010 and has some of the most progressive trans rights globally.
What are the most LGBT-friendly countries for marriage equality?
Countries leading in marriage equality include Canada, the Netherlands, Spain, Portugal, Belgium, and Malta, which legalized same-sex or gay marriage early and offer strong legal protections for LGBTQ+ couples.
What is the most LGBT friendly country in Europe?
Malta consistently ranks as the most LGBTQ-friendly country in Europe, thanks to strong anti-discrimination laws, marriage equality, and transgender rights. Other top LGBTQ-friendly countries in Europe include the Netherlands, Spain, Portugal, and Denmark, all of which offer high levels of legal protection and societal acceptance.
How do I choose a gay-friendly country for relocation?
When choosing gay-friendly countries for relocation, consider factors like legal protections, healthcare access, safety, LGBTQIA+ social scene, and overall societal attitudes. Countries like Portugal, Canada, Spain, and the Netherlands offer great quality of life, vibrant queer communities, and strong legal rights for LGBTQ+ individuals, making them some of the best gay-friendly countries and LGBTQ friendly countries to live.
What are the most LGBT-friendly countries for expats?
Countries like Portugal, Canada, Spain, and the Netherlands are particularly welcoming to LGBT expats due to progressive laws and strong LGBT expat communities. Cities such as Toronto, Madrid, Amsterdam, and Lisbon are known for being safe, queer-friendly, and culturally rich destinations for LGBT individuals moving abroad.
